2006 Audi S3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML. (221 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 720 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2150 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 95 L |
